The Best Horror Movies Based On True Stories, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated June 1, 2024 538.7K views 57 items
Ranked By
64.8K votes
6.0K voters
14 reranks

Over 6,000 movie fans have voted to shape these rankings of the best horror movies based on true stories. The top films in this tally are thrilling tales that explore real-life terror and tragedy. Whether it's a house haunted by its past or an escaped serial killer wreaking havoc, these films combine fact with fiction to create intense cinematic experiences that leave viewers shaken for days afterward.

The Exorcism Of Emily Rose is one such example; it follows a reverend put on trial for negligent homicide after performing an exorcism gone wrong, drawing from the actual events surrounding Anneliese Michel's death in 1976. Similarly, Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning is loosely inspired by Ed Gein, who was arrested in 1957 after murdering two women and stealing their body parts while living alone on his family farm. Then there’s Wolf Creek which follows three backpackers traveling through Australia who fall prey to Mick Taylor – a character based on real-life murderer Ivan Milat — as he hunts them down like animals in the Outback.

These are just some of the incredible titles included here among other classic scary flicks based on true events! Vote up your favorite horror movies based on real-life stories so others can see what resonates most with fans.

Most divisive: The Girl Next Door
Over 6.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Horror Movies Based On True Stories, Ranked
  • The Exorcist
    1
    Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von Sydow
    3,377 votes

    The Exorcist is a bone-chilling horror classic directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty's bestselling novel. Inspired by real-life events, this terrifying tale revolves around a young girl named Regan (Linda Blair) who becomes possessed by demonic forces, leading her desperate mother to seek help from two priests – Father Karras (Jason Miller) and Father Merrin (Max von Sydow). With its astonishing special effects and masterful storytelling, The Exorcist remains one of the most influential horror films in cinematic history.

  • The Silence of the Lambs
    2
    Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
    3,046 votes

    The Silence of the Lambs, directed by Jonathan Demme and based on Thomas Harris' novel, is a chilling psychological horror film that showcases the twisted relationship between an FBI agent-in-training, Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), and a cannibalistic psychiatrist, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). This brilliant adaptation flawlessly blends crime thriller elements with terrifying moments as it delves into the dark recesses of human nature. The performances by Foster and Hopkins are simply astounding, earning them both Academy Awards for their roles. As one of the best true story movies in its genre, The Silence of the Lambs continues to influence filmmakers decades after its release.

  • The Conjuring
    3
    Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Lili Taylor
    2,538 votes

    Directed by James Wan and based on real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren's case files, The Conjuring is a spine-tingling supernatural horror movie that tells the story of a family tormented by malevolent spirits in their Rhode Island farmhouse. Starring Vera Farmiga as Lorraine Warren and Patrick Wilson as Ed Warren, this expertly crafted film delivers edge-of-your-seat thrills while staying true to its source material. Captivating visuals and powerful performances make this modern horror masterpiece unforgettable.

  • The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
    4
    Marilyn Burns, Gunnar Hansen, Allen Danziger
    2,640 votes

    Tobe Hooper's seminal 1974 horror film, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, is a terrifying tale based on the true story of serial killer Ed Gein. Set in the rural countryside of Texas, a group of friends encounter a sadistic and cannibalistic family led by the iconic chainsaw-wielding villain, Leatherface. Hooper's masterful use of suspense and atmosphere combined with its grimy aesthetic creates an unsettling experience that still resonates with audiences today.

  • A Nightmare on Elm Street
    5
    John Saxon, Ronee Blakley, Heather Langenkamp
    2,574 votes

    Legendary filmmaker Wes Craven's A Nightmare on Elm Street draws inspiration from real-life events to craft a horrifying slasher film that introduced one of cinema's most iconic villains: Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund). With his razor-sharp glove and penchant for invading dreams, Krueger terrorizes a group of teenagers living on Elm Street, ultimately forcing them to confront their worst nightmares. Featuring unforgettable practical effects and stellar performances from a young Johnny Depp and Heather Langenkamp, this groundbreaking movie established Craven as an influential figure in the horror genre.

  • The Amityville Horror
    6
    James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger
    2,560 votes

    The Amityville Horror, directed by Stuart Rosenberg and based on Jay Anson's book, recounts the terrifying events experienced by the Lutz family in their supposedly haunted Long Island home. This spine-chilling tale follows George (James Brolin) and Kathy Lutz (Margot Kidder), who move into a house with their children only to be plagued by unexplained supernatural occurrences. With its tense atmosphere and shocking twists, The Amityville Horror remains an enduring classic that continues to terrify audiences.

  • Psycho
    7
    Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles
    2,473 votes

    Alfred Hitchcock's groundbreaking 1960 film, Psycho, is inspired by the chilling true story of serial killer Ed Gein. This suspenseful masterpiece follows Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), a woman on the run who seeks refuge at the Bates Motel, only to meet her demise at the hands of its disturbed proprietor Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). Hitchcock's masterful direction and Bernard Herrmann's iconic score elevate Psycho to legendary status as it continues to influence generations of filmmakers.

  • The Exorcism of Emily Rose
    8
    Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, Campbell Scott
    1,877 votes

    The Exorcism of Emily Rose, directed by Scott Derrickson and inspired by real-life events surrounding Anneliese Michel, is a gripping horror thriller that delves into faith, possession, and exorcism. Starring Laura Linney as defense attorney Erin Bruner and Tom Wilkinson as Father Moore, this thought-provoking courtroom drama offers an intense exploration into one young woman's terrifying experiences as well as the moral dilemmas faced by those involved in her case.

  • Jaws
    9
    Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
    2,419 votes

    Steven Spielberg's iconic 1975 film Jaws tells the thrilling true story of shark attacks that terrorized beachgoers along New Jersey’s coastline in 1916. Expertly blending tension with heart-stopping action sequences featuring its unforgettable antagonist – a great white shark – Spielberg creates a masterpiece that has left lasting imprints on popular culture. John Williams' legendary score and the exceptional performances by Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss ensure Jaws remains a timeless classic.

  • The Haunting in Connecticut
    10
    Virginia Madsen, Kyle Gallner, Martin Donovan
    1,683 votes

    The Haunting in Connecticut recounts the chilling true story of a family who moves into a former funeral home only to experience terrifying supernatural occurrences. Directed by Peter Cornwell and starring Virginia Madsen as Sara Campbell, this tense paranormal thriller delves into themes of faith and redemption while providing plenty of scares along the way.

  • The Hills Have Eyes
    11
    Suze Lanier-Bramlett, Robert Houston, James Whitworth
    1,913 votes

    Based on the gruesome legends of 16th-century Scottish cannibal Sawney Bean, Wes Craven's 1977 horror film, The Hills Have Eyes, is a harrowing tale of survival against all odds. As a family becomes stranded in the Nevada desert, they quickly realize they are being hunted by bloodthirsty savages. With its raw energy and relentless suspense, The Hills Have Eyes has earned its place among the best true story movies in horror history.

  • Child's Play
    12
    Catherine Hicks, Chris Sarandon, Alex Vincent
    2,058 votes

    Drawing inspiration from real-life stories of haunted dolls like Robert the Doll and Annabelle, Tom Holland's Child's Play introduces cinema's most infamous possessed toy: Chucky (voiced by Brad Dourif). When young Andy Barclay (Alex Vincent) receives a seemingly harmless Good Guy doll for his birthday, he soon discovers it harbors an evil spirit intent on wreaking havoc. This inventive slasher film has spawned numerous sequels and solidified Chucky as a horror icon.

  • Scream
    13
    Neve Campbell, David Arquette, Courteney Cox
    1,010 votes

    Wes Craven revitalized the slasher genre with his self-aware masterpiece Scream in 1996. Fueled by Kevin Williamson's razor-sharp script that cleverly lampoons common horror tropes while staying true to its roots, this modern classic revolves around high school student Sydney Prescott (Neve Campbell) as she confronts a mysterious killer. Bolstered by its ensemble cast, including Courteney Cox and David Arquette, Scream remains a thrilling tribute to the horror genre.

  • Bram Stoker's Dracula
    14
    Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins
    1,624 votes

    Francis Ford Coppola's visually stunning adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel presents the iconic vampire in all his gothic glory. With a stellar cast that includes Gary Oldman as Count Dracula, Winona Ryder as Mina Harker, Anthony Hopkins as Professor Van Helsing, and Keanu Reeves as Jonathan Harker, this grand retelling of the infamous bloodsucker's tale expertly blends romance with horror to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

  • The Zodiac Killer
    15
    Hal Reed, Bob Jones, Ray Lynch
    1,669 votes

    Tom Hanson's 1971 exploitation film The Zodiac Killer delves into the terrifying true story of one of America's most elusive serial murderers. This gritty crime thriller explores the chilling modus operandi of its enigmatic antagonist while attempting to uncover his identity through a series of re-enactments and dramatizations. Although it may not offer definitive answers regarding the titular killer, The Zodiac Killer provides a fascinating glimpse into this unsolved mystery.

  • The Strangers
    16
    Liv Tyler, Scott Speedman, Gemma Ward
    1,429 votes

    Bryan Bertino's 2008 horror film, The Strangers, is inspired by real-life events and focuses on a couple, played by Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman, who become terrorized by a group of masked assailants in their secluded vacation home. With its absolutely relentless tension and chilling atmosphere, this dark tale taps into primal fears of home invasion while demonstrating the senselessness of violence.

  • Monster
    17
    Charlize Theron, Christina Ricci, Bruce Dern
    1,746 votes

    Patty Jenkins' powerful 2003 biographical crime drama tells the harrowing true story of Aileen Wuornos, a former prostitute-turned-serial killer portrayed masterfully by Charlize Theron. This gritty and emotionally charged film offers an unflinching look at Wuornos' crimes as well as her tumultuous relationship with Selby Wall (Christina Ricci). Theron delivers a transformative performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

  • An American Haunting
    18
    Donald Sutherland, Sissy Spacek, Rachel Hurd-Wood
    1,333 votes

    Based on the legendary Bell Witch haunting in early 19th century Tennessee, An American Haunting explores the terrifying supernatural events experienced by the Bell family. Directed by Courtney Solomon and starring Donald Sutherland and Sissy Spacek, this chilling ghost story delves into themes of family dysfunction and psychological turmoil while providing plenty of scares along the way.

  • From Hell
    19
    Johnny Depp, Heather Graham, Ian Holm
    1,188 votes

    The Hughes Brothers bring to life Alan Moore's acclaimed graphic novel with their atmospheric adaptation From Hell in 2001. Chronicling the gruesome exploits of Jack the Ripper during London's Victorian Era, this stylish mystery thriller stars Johnny Depp as Inspector Frederick Abberline – a police detective determined to uncover the truth behind these heinous crimes. With its superb cast and meticulously crafted visuals, From Hell immerses viewers in this fascinating historical tale.

  • Zodiac
    20
    Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey
    456 votes

    David Fincher's gripping crime thriller Zodiac follows the dogged efforts of journalists Paul Avery (Robert Downey Jr.) and Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal) as they work to unravel the mystery surrounding the notorious Zodiac Killer. Based on true events, this meticulously detailed film offers a captivating look into the world of investigative journalism and the obsession that drives individuals in their pursuit of truth.

  • The Mothman Prophecies
    21
    Richard Gere, Laura Linney, Will Patton
    1,373 votes

    Mark Pellington's eerie 2002 thriller delves into the mysterious phenomenon surrounding sightings of a gigantic winged creature known as the Mothman in Point Pleasant, West Virginia during the late 1960s. Starring Richard Gere as journalist John Klein who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind these strange occurrences, The Mothman Prophecies combines elements of conspiracy theories and supernatural horror to create an intriguing cinematic experience.

  • The Entity
    22
    Barbara Hershey, Ron Silver, George Coe
    1,103 votes

    The Entity, directed by Sidney J. Furie, is a terrifying supernatural horror film based on the alleged real-life experiences of Doris Bither. Starring Barbara Hershey as Carla Moran, a woman tormented by an invisible force, this chilling tale explores themes of helplessness and survival while maintaining a relentless atmosphere of dread.

  • Dracula
    23
    Bela Lugosi, Edward Van Sloan, Dwight Frye
    335 votes

    Tod Browning's iconic 1931 adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel stars Bela Lugosi in his legendary portrayal of Count Dracula – a seductive vampire preying upon innocent victims in London after relocating from Transylvania. Featuring atmospheric cinematography and groundbreaking special effects for its time, Dracula remains an influential staple in cinema history.

  • Gacy
    24
    Mark Holton, Charlie Weber, Adam Baldwin
    284 votes

    Based on the horrifying true story of John Wayne Gacy – dubbed The Killer Clown – Clive Saunders' biographical crime drama delves into the twisted psyche of one of America's most infamous serial killers. With an unsettling performance by Mark Holton as Gacy himself, this film provides chilling insights into his gruesome crimes while exploring themes like deception and manipulation.

  • The Rite
    25
    Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue, Alice Braga
    812 votes

    Mikael Håfström's 2011 supernatural thriller, The Rite, is inspired by real-life events surrounding exorcist Father Gary Thomas and follows a skeptical seminary student (Colin O'Donoghue) who apprentices under an experienced priest (Anthony Hopkins) to learn the dark arts of exorcism. This suspenseful film skilfully explores themes of faith and doubt, offering both a thrilling cinematic experience and profound questions regarding spirituality.

  • Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile
    26
    Zac Efron, Lily Collins, Haley Joel Osment
    57 votes

    Joe Berlinger's riveting biographical crime drama follows the life and crimes of notorious serial killer Ted Bundy (Zac Efron) through the eyes of his longtime girlfriend Elizabeth Kloepfer (Lily Collins). Featuring an electrifying performance from Efron that challenges perceptions about Bundy's outward charm, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile offers a unique perspective on one of America's most infamous killers.

  • An American Crime
    27
    Catherine Keener, Elliot Page, James Franco
    40 votes

    Based on the tragic true story of Sylvia Likens, An American Crime tells the harrowing tale of unimaginable abuse suffered by a young girl at the hands of Gertrude Baniszewski (Catherine Keener) and her children in 1965 Indiana. Directed by Tommy O'Haver and featuring powerful performances from Ellen Page as Sylvia Likens and Catherine Keener as Gertrude Baniszewski, this gripping drama serves as a haunting reminder of humanity's capacity for cruelty.

  • The Witch
    28
    Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie
    46 votes

    Robert Eggers' directorial debut, The Witch, is a chilling supernatural horror film set in 17th-century New England. Drawing inspiration from historical accounts of witchcraft and Puritan beliefs, this atmospheric tale follows a devout family as they grapple with the sinister forces that begin to plague them after being banished from their community. Featuring standout performances from Anya Taylor-Joy and Ralph Ineson, The Witch is an unsettling journey into the darkest recesses of human nature.

  • The Haunting of Sharon Tate
    29
    Hilary Duff, Jonathan Bennett, Lydia Hearst
    45 votes

    This chilling horror-thriller directed by Daniel Farrands presents an alternative version of the horrific Manson Family murders that took place in August 1969. Starring Hilary Duff as doomed actress Sharon Tate, The Haunting of Sharon Tate combines elements of supernatural horror with brutal violence to create a disturbing alternate history account that remains grounded in its historical context.

  • The Afflicted
    30
    Kane Hodder, Leslie Easterbrook, Tammy Trull
    27 votes

    Loosely based on the horrifying true story of Theresa Knorr, Jason Stoddard's The Afflicted follows the descent into madness experienced by Maggie (Leslie Easterbrook), who becomes convinced that her teenage daughter is possessed by evil spirits before subjecting her other children to unspeakable abuse. A harrowing exploration of familial dysfunction and religious fanaticism, this brutal horror film serves as a stark reminder of humanity's darkest impulses.

  • The Girl Next Door
    31
    Catherine Mary Stewart, William Atherton, Mark Margolis
    994 votes

    Based on the horrifying true events surrounding Sylvia Likens' torture and murder, Gregory Wilson's The Girl Next Door is a harrowing psychological thriller that explores themes of innocence lost and humanity's capacity for evil. With its deeply disturbing subject matter and powerful performances by its young cast including Blythe Auffarth as Sylvia Likens, this film offers a haunting portrayal of the darkness lurking beneath suburban tranquility.

  • Veronica
    32
    Sandra Escacena, Bruna Gonzalez, Claudia Placer
    38 votes

    Based on real-life events surrounding Spanish teenager Estefania Gutierrez Lazaro, Paco Plaza's Veronica is a gripping paranormal thriller that follows its titular character after she conducts a séance during a solar eclipse. With its formidable scares and underlying themes of adolescence and family dynamics, this creepy tale keeps viewers on tenterhooks throughout its runtime.

  • Wolf Creek
    33
    Teresa Palmer, John Jarratt, Kestie Morassi
    1,058 votes

    Inspired by real-life outback serial killer Ivan Milat, Greg McLean's brutal Australian horror film Wolf Creek tells the harrowing story of three backpackers who become stranded in remote Western Australia only to encounter deranged psychopath Mick Taylor (John Jarratt). With its unflinching depiction of violence and sadistic antagonist, Wolf Creek offers an intense viewing experience that delves deep into the darker aspects of human nature.

  • The Quiet Ones
    34
    Jared Harris, Sam Claflin, Olivia Cooke
    30 votes

    Drawing inspiration from real-life paranormal investigations conducted by British researchers during the 1970s, John Pogue's The Quiet Ones tells the story of Professor Joseph Coupland (Jared Harris) and his team as they attempt to study the mysterious phenomenon surrounding a young girl named Jane Harper (Olivia Cooke). Combining elements of psychological horror with supernatural intrigue, this thrilling film explores the blurred lines between science and the unexplained.

  • Dahmer
    35
    Jeremy Renner, Bruce Davison, Artel Great
    874 votes

    David Jacobson's chilling biographical crime drama delves into the dark world of notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, portrayed by Jeremy Renner in a haunting performance that showcases his eerie ability to blend into society while committing heinous acts behind closed doors. By exploring Dahmer's twisted motivations and relationships, this unsettling film offers an unnerving look at one of America's most infamous killers.

  • Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer
    37
    Michael Rooker, Tracy Arnold, Tom Towles
    723 votes

    Inspired by the real-life crimes of serial killer Henry Lee Lucas, John McNaughton's gritty 1986 film provides an unflinching look at the mind and actions of its titular character, portrayed with chilling intensity by Michael Rooker. Boasting raw performances from its cast and uncompromising violence throughout its narrative, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer remains a disturbing cinematic experience that delves deep into the darkest corners of human nature.

  • Winchester
    38
    Helen Mirren, Jason Clarke, Sarah Snook
    47 votes

    Exploring the eerie history behind one of America's most famous haunted houses – the Winchester Mystery House – directors Michael and Peter Spierig delve into themes of guilt and redemption within this chilling supernatural horror film. Starring Helen Mirren as Sarah Winchester, heiress to the gun manufacturing fortune responsible for countless deaths, Winchester provides both gripping suspense and visually stunning gothic imagery.

  • Fire in the Sky
    39
    D.B. Sweeney, Robert Patrick, Craig Sheffer
    886 votes

    This science fiction horror film directed by Robert Lieberman is based on Travis Walton's alleged alien abduction in 1975. With its gripping story and realistic portrayal of fear, skepticism, and determination among Walton's friends and family, Fire in the Sky offers an intriguing exploration of extraterrestrial encounters that continue to captivate imaginations today.

  • Hard Candy
    40
    Patrick Wilson, Elliot Page, Sandra Oh
    959 votes

    David Slade's unsettling psychological thriller Hard Candy is inspired by real-life stories of internet predators and features standout performances from Ellen Page as Hayley Stark – a teenage girl who turns the tables on her assailant Jeff Kohlver (Patrick Wilson). With its intense cat-and-mouse game between predator and prey, this provocative film forces viewers to confront their own preconceptions about justice and revenge.

  • Open Water
    41
    Blanchard Ryan, Daniel Travis, Saul Stein
    1,140 votes

    Chris Kentis' tense survival thriller Open Water draws inspiration from the horrifying true story of Tom and Eileen Lonergan, who were accidentally left behind during a scuba diving trip off Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Featuring brilliant performances from Blanchard Ryan and Daniel Travis as Susan and Daniel Kintner, this chilling tale expertly conveys the terror of being stranded in shark-infested waters while helplessly awaiting rescue.

  • Silent House
    42
    Elizabeth Olsen, Adam Trese, Eric Sheffer Stevens
    458 votes

    Directors Chris Kentis and Laura Lau immerse viewers into an unnerving world inspired by actual events with their 2011 single-take horror film Silent House. Starring Elizabeth Olsen as Sarah, a young woman trapped in her family's deserted lakeside retreat while being pursued by sinister forces, this tension-filled story offers a unique approach to the traditional haunted house narrative.

  • The Serpent and the Rainbow
    43
    Bill Pullman, Cathy Tyson, Zakes Mokae
    820 votes

    Wes Craven's supernatural horror film The Serpent and the Rainbow combines elements of true-life events surrounding Haitian Vodou practices with fictionalized accounts to create an eerie tale revolving around anthropologist Dennis Alan (Bill Pullman) as he investigates rumors of zombification. This visually stunning movie showcases Craven's unique ability to craft compelling narratives tinged with mysticism, suspense, and terror.

  • Audrey Rose
    44
    Marsha Mason, Anthony Hopkins, John Beck
    116 votes

    Based on Frank De Felitta's supernatural horror novel, Robert Wise's Audrey Rose tells the chilling tale of Janice (Marsha Mason) and Bill Templeton (John Beck), whose daughter Ivy begins exhibiting strange behavior that may be linked to reincarnation. With its gripping narrative and thought-provoking questions about life after death, this haunting film stands as a testament to Wise's masterful storytelling abilities.

  • The Sacrament
    45
    Joe Swanberg, Amy Seimetz, AJ Bowen
    76 votes

    Ti West's found-footage thriller The Sacrament is inspired by the real-life events surrounding the infamous Jonestown Massacre in 1978. This chilling tale follows two Vice journalists as they document their friend's quest to find his sister who has joined a mysterious commune led by the enigmatic Father (Gene Jones). With its disquieting atmosphere and slow-burning tension, The Sacrament provides an unsettling look into the mindsets of people willing to follow charismatic leaders into darkness.

  • When the Lights Went Out
    46
    Martin Compston, Gary Lewis, Kate Ashfield
    74 votes

    Inspired by England's most documented poltergeist case – The Black Monk of Pontefract – director Pat Holden crafts a chilling ghost story set in 1974 Yorkshire with When the Lights Went Out. As a family moves into their new home only to encounter malevolent spirits, they must band together against these unseen forces while grappling with their own fears and doubts.

  • Dear Mr. Gacy
    47
    William Forsythe, Emma Lahana, Richard Harmon
    70 votes

    Based on Jason Moss' memoir The Last Victim, Svetozar Ristovski's disturbing psychological thriller Dear Mr. Gacy delves into the twisted relationship between Moss (played by Jesse Moss) and notorious serial killer John Wayne Gacy (William Forsythe). As Moss becomes increasingly obsessed with gaining insight into Gacy's mind, this chilling tale explores themes of manipulation, deception, and the dark allure of evil.

  • Compliance
    48
    Dreama Walker, Ann Dowd, James McCaffrey
    26 votes

    Craig Zobel's unsettling thriller Compliance is inspired by real-life events surrounding a series of fast-food restaurant hoaxes perpetrated by a manipulative prank caller. Starring Ann Dowd as store manager Sandra and Dreama Walker as employee Becky, this tension-filled narrative forces viewers to confront questions about the limits of authority, personal responsibility, and blind obedience.

  • Ravenous
    49
    Guy Pearce, Robert Carlyle, Jeremy Davies
    166 votes

    Antonia Bird’s psychological horror film Ravenous draws inspiration from grisly true stories like that of Alferd Packer – a 19th-century prospector accused of cannibalism during a harsh winter in Colorado’s Rockies. Featuring standout performances from Guy Pearce and Robert Carlyle as soldiers caught up in an escalating cycle of violence and madness at an isolated Army outpost, this gripping tale expertly weaves elements of history with supernatural lore to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

  • Dead Ringers
    50
    Jeremy Irons, Geneviève Bujold, Heidi von Palleske
    167 votes
    Inspired by two real-life identical twin gynecologists, Stewart and Cyril Marcus. 
    Elliot (Jeremy Irons), a successful gynecologist, works at the same practice as his identical twin, Beverly (also Irons). Elliot is attracted to many of his patients and has affairs with them. When he inevitably loses interest, he will give the woman over to Beverly, the meeker of the two, without the woman knowing the difference. Beverly falls hard for one of the patients, Claire (Geneviève Bujold), but when she inadvertently deceives him, he slips into a state of madness.
  • My Friend Dahmer
    51
    Ross Lynch, Alex Wolff, Anne Heche
    29 votes

    Based on Derf Backderf's acclaimed graphic novel, Marc Meyers' biographical drama My Friend Dahmer explores the troubled high school years of infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer (played by Ross Lynch) through the perspective of his former classmate turned comic artist. With its chilling character study and focus on the warning signs preceding Dahmer's horrific crimes, this engrossing film offers unique insights into the making of a monster.

  • Shadow People
    52
    Anne Dudek, Alison Eastwood, Dallas Roberts
    152 votes
    Based on the director's own encounter with a "shadow person" and loosely based on the phenomenon known as Sudden Unexplained Nocturnal Death Syndrome (S.U.N.D.S).
    Shadow People is a 2013 American supernatural thriller written and directed by Matthew Arnold. It stars Dallas Roberts and Alison Eastwood.
  • Cold Fish
    53
    Taro Suwa, Denden, Megumi Kagurazaka
    77 votes

    Based on the real-life exploits of a serial killer couple. 

    Cold Fish is a 2010 Japanese serial killer film directed by Sion Sono. The film is about a quiet and unambitious owner of a tropical fish shop whose life and family are taken over by a fellow fish entrepreneur who happens to be a serial killer. The film is loosely based on the exploits of two Tokyo serial killers, Sekine Gen and Hiroko Kazama, a husband and wife duo who owned a pet shop and murdered at least four people. Cold Fish premiered at the 67th Venice International Film Festival on September 7, 2010 and received the best screenplay award in the Fantastic Features section at Fantastic Fest 2010.
  • Black Water
    54
    Diana Glenn, Maeve Dermody, Andy Rodoreda
    160 votes
    Based on the death of a young Australian man who was eaten alive by a crocodile.
    In the swamps of Northern Australia, a killer crocodile stalks a pregnant woman, her boyfriend and her sister.
  • Borderland
    55
    Brian Presley, Martha Higareda, Jake Muxworthy
    616 votes

    Loosely based on the story of cult leader and serial killer Adolofo de Jesus Costanzo.

    Ed (Brian Presley), Henry (Jake Muxworthy) and Phil (Rider Strong) are three American college graduates in search of wild times in Mexico. After a night of partying with two local women, Ed and Henry realize that Phil is missing. Joining forces with an ex-cop, their search for their friend leads them to a horrifying encounter with cultists who practice human sacrifice.
  • Stuck
    56
    Mena Suvari, Stephen Rea, Russell Hornsby
    146 votes
    Based on the true story of a Texas woman who struck a homeless man with her car. The man became lodged in her windshield so she drove home and parked the car in the garage and left him to die.
  • 247°F
    57

    247°F

    Scout Taylor-Compton, Tyler Mane, Michael Copon
    146 votes
    Based on the story of a Georgia man who accidentally locked his friends in a sauna and completely forgot about it.
    247°F is a 2011 horror thriller film written by Lloyd S. Wagner and Levan Bakhia. it is also directed by Levan Bakhia and Beqa Jguburia.